We've all talked about ‘The Dream’ and how it affects the area around us. But what is it? Some people try to explain it as some form of Amtgard perfection we reach as the game becomes perfect. They talk it up as though you don't need to make anything else better once your land has this ‘dream’. It’s the greatest form of Amtgard ever, period.

But I don’t think that’s what it is. What this dream truly turns out to be is people getting along and playing this game. . . getting pumped up about ditch battles, or doing well in your land, or whatever it is you like to do. Are you doing that? Congratulations, you're living ‘The Dream’.

It could be as simple as just being a good tourney fighter or a good ditch-monkey. Maybe it's doing service-oriented stuff like serving at feasts, or maybe it's making seriously quality garb, or making incredibly safe weapons in the ease and comfort of your own home. Whatever it is, be happy doing it.

Along the way to this dream, we’ve learned a few things. We've all come to the conclusion that, without newbies, there would be no need for titles in this game whatsoever. We also decided that throwing your titles around sucks, and we shouldn't do it. Also, knighthoods shouldn't go to your head, because that usually leads to people thinking you aren't upholding the standard we usually hold knights up to. That's all great and dandy, but remember that just going out to play at your park is just as valid as challenging yourself to achieve that higher level of whatever it is you so choose to pursue.

I hate to sound like a broken record, but if you aren't happy with what you're doing in Amtgard, do something else. Optimism, having a blast doing what you're doing, and generally looking out for the new guy will generally keep a group together.... it'll also give you something to smile about. Just a few things to keep in mind the next time you load up the car/truck/flying carpet or whatever it is that you use to get to Amtgard.